Aircraft Accident Investigation

The course is designed for individuals who have limited investigation experience. All aspects of the investigation process are addressed, starting with preparation for the investigation through writing the final report. It covers National Transportation Safety Board and International (ICAO) procedures. Investigative techniques are examined with emphasis on fixed wing investigation. Data collection, wreckage reconstruction and cause analysis are discussed in the classroom and applied in the lab.

The new USC Aircraft Accident Investigation lab serves as the location for practical exercises. Eight aircraft wreckages form the basis of these investigative exercises. An actual crash site in the LA area is visited. The crash laboratory gives the student an opportunity to learn the observation and documentation skills required of accident investigators. The wreckage is examined and reviewed with investigators who have extensive actual real-world investigation experience. Examination techniques and methods are demonstrated along with participative group discussions of actual wreckage examination, reviews of witness interview information, and investigation group personal dynamics discussions.

Anyone who participates in an Aircraft Accident Investigation may be called upon to communicate with a wide range of individuals including: investigators, regulators, industry representatives, lawyers, and the media. The communication portion of the AAI class provides students with the tools necessary to address those diverse audiences. This is a specialized skill that will prove to be highly valuable in aircraft accident or incident situations.

Objectives: To provide concepts and practical techniques on aircraft investigation methodology, and prepare an individual to participate in an aircraft accident investigation.

Who Should Attend: Persons associated with aircraft accident investigation including manufacturers, operators, associations, insurers, air carriers, government agencies, law enforcement and military.

Course Outline

1. Investigations
        Introduction and History
        Authority and Theory
        Principles of Investigation
        Initial Actions
        Site Safety
        On-Scene Investigation Procedures
        Investigation of Aircraft Fires
        Reciprocating Engines and Propellers
        Gas Turbine Engines
        Systems Investigation
        In-flight Breakup and Midair Collisions
        Technical Assistance
        Analysis and Report Writing
        Flight Data Recorders
        Cockpit Voice Recorders
2. Technology
        Types of Material Failures
        Metal and Composite Materials
        Identifying Failures in the Field
        Understanding Aircraft Stability
        Aerodynamics — Accident Cause or Contributor
3. Human and Biomedical Factors
        Human Factors
        Casualty Identification
        Aeromedical Role in Investigation
4. Aircraft Accident Communication Techniques
5. Media Relations
        Overview of Strategy
        Message Development and Thought Process
        Interactive Exercises to Illustrate Techniques
        Critique and Analysis of Potential Situations
        The Role and Reality of Media in Accident Investigation
6. Accident Investigation (conducted in a separate facility with actual wreckage)
        Wreckage Observation/Familiarization
        Wreckage Examination/Documentation
        Investigation Organization at Accident Site
        Accident Site Hazards and Safety
        Investigative Group Interactions